Supreme Court's Big Decision on Delhi-NCR Pollution: Will Schools Reopen?

New Delhi(The Uttam Hindu):In a significant hearing regarding rising pollution levels in Delhi-NCR, the Supreme Court addressed the issue and criticized the Delhi government, requesting data on the Air Quality Index (AQI). The Court stated that it could not proceed to Stage 3 or Stage 2 restrictions until it was convinced that the AQI was consistently improving. However, the Court showed some leniency on the matter of schools and directed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to make a decision. For now, Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) will remain in place.

The Supreme Court also instructed the CAQM to consider whether physical classes in schools and educational institutions could be allowed, taking into account factors such as children missing midday meals and lacking necessary facilities for online classes. The Court pointed out that many students do not have air purifiers at home, meaning staying at home or attending school makes little difference for them. It was emphasized that GRAP-4 would not be reduced until there was clear evidence of a sustained decline in AQI levels. The Court has directed the Delhi government to provide AQI data by Wednesday. A bench consisting of Justices Abhay S. Oka and Augustine George Masih stated, "Until we are satisfied that there is a consistent decline in the AQI, we cannot order a relaxation of restrictions under GRAP-3 or GRAP-2." The next hearing on the matter is scheduled for Wednesday.

Additionally, the Court directed the CAQM to consider the welfare of workers and daily wage laborers, urging states to assist them during the construction ban. The Court stated, "During the construction ban, states should use the funds collected as a labor cess to support the livelihoods of workers."